Branksome Craft House is a craft beer pub and kitchen on Commercial Road, a short walk inland from West Cliff and the town centre. The building itself is the real draw before a single pint is poured, a Grade II listed former pub dating to around 1905, its frontage still carrying the original glazed green tiles and an Eldridge Pope crest from its brewing history. It's traded under a few names over the years, most recently as Brewhouse & Kitchen, before rebranding as part of the Crafthouse Pubs group.
Food and drink
The kitchen keeps things simple and crowd-pleasing: smash burgers, crunchy fried chicken and dirty waffle fries anchor the menu, backed up by a rotating line-up of craft beers, small-batch spirits and curated cocktails. Brunch runs daily, and Mondays bring a smash burger, fries and pint deal. There's an allergen menu for anyone with dietary requirements, and happy-hour pints and 2-for-£15 cocktails through much of the week keep it firmly in casual, good-value territory rather than fine dining.
Atmosphere and space
Inside, the pub spreads over two levels with plenty of space to settle in, plus a beer garden for warmer days. Sky Sports and TNT Sports screens make it a natural spot to catch a match, while a rear function room, with its own private bar and sound system, takes private hire and parties of up to around 60 people.
Good to know
Opening and food-service hours vary by day and are longer on Friday and Saturday nights, so it's worth checking current times on the venue's website before setting out, particularly around events. For more places to eat and drink nearby, browse our food & drink guide, or see what else is on in the area via our things to do guide.